22 January,2024 11:38 AM IST | Ayodhya | mid-day online correspondent
Ayodhya Ram Mandir
Ayodhya is buzzing with anticipation as it prepares to welcome Lord Ram in a historic consecration ceremony at the newly constructed Ram Mandir on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to participate in the 'Pran Pratishtha' of the idol of Ram Lalla, the childhood form of Lord Ram.
The ceremony, commencing at 12:20 pm, is expected to draw people from diverse backgrounds, including spiritual leaders, representatives of various religious sects, tribal communities, and prominent personalities. The prime minister will address the gathering and interact with 'shramjeevis' associated with the temple's construction.
In addition to the temple ceremony, Prime Minister Modi will visit the restored ancient Shiv temple at Kuber Tila to perform a 'pooja.' The Ram Mandir, constructed in the traditional Nagara style, stands at an impressive length of 380 feet, width of 250 feet, and height of 161 feet, adorned with intricately sculpted depictions of Hindu deities.
The consecration rituals began on January 16 and will conclude on Monday afternoon in the auspicious 'abhijeet muhurta.' The event is expected to be watched live by millions on TV and online platforms, with the central government declaring a half-day off on January 22.
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The celebrations extend beyond Ayodhya, with temples across the country hosting special festivities. Internationally, events are planned in cities like Washington DC, Paris, and Sydney by Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Hindu diaspora groups.
The 'Pran Pratishtha' will be hosted by fourteen couples, and the newly sculpted 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla, created by Arun Yogiraj of Mysuru, will take centre stage. Ayodhya is immersed in religious fervour, adorned with flowers, lights, and thematic decorations depicting Lord Ram.
Ayodhya is under a robust multi-layered security cover, featuring 10,000 CCTV cameras, drones with artificial intelligence, and police personnel in plain clothes. Movable barriers with barbed wires are strategically placed to regulate traffic. Notable figures like Amitabh Bachchan, Mukesh Ambani, Gautam Adani, and Sachin Tendulkar are among the 506 A-list invitees.
The consecration ceremony holds immense significance, marking the culmination of the first phase of temple construction following the landmark 2019 Supreme Court judgment on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit. The ceremony is a testament to Ayodhya's long-awaited celebration of Lord Ram, overcoming historical challenges and controversies.
